We discussed this quite a bit during our conversion project of WANDERBIRD. When we brought the vessel across from France we experienced some engine problems, (mostly with my inexperience with our LARGE Industrie Diesel , 500 HP @ 500 RPM). One really realizes their vulnerability whilst adrift 700 nm from any landfall. Our previous vessel was the 100' loa former pilot schooner TIMBERWIND out of Rockport, Maine and she had no inboard power what so ever and we became quite comfortable sailing her with 20 passengers on the coast of Maine for nearly fifteen years as a member of the Maine Windjammer Fleet. I always felt more comfortable with the sails then I did depending on our small diesel yawl boat to push in and out of the harbor. The Wanderbird is at the other end of the spectrum but that brings me back to why I am posting this. One of the main reasons that we added the sailing rig to the vessel was to get us home should we ever loose the services of the power plant. We plan to charter this vessel around Newfoundland and Labrador and having the working sailing rig gives me great peace of mind, (the insurance folks liked it as well). We have had her sailing at 5.3 knts with 24 knts of breeze just aft of the beam. Any rolling of the vessel is greatly reduced as well. I am new to this list but really enjoying it...thanks Peace and Kind Regards, Capt. Rick and Karen Miles Expedition Vessel Wanderbird, www.wanderbirdcruises.com Sailing with the Whales and Seabirds along the Coasts of New England and the Maritimes